Axplora is investing several million euros to expand lyophilisation capacity at its Le Mans site in France, alongside appointing François Houbart as head of site.

Axplora said the expansion will add commercial-scale lyophilisation capabilities from early 2027, building on existing research and development infrastructure and strengthening its antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) manufacturing offering. The additional capacity is designed to support the isolation and handling of complex payload and linker intermediates, particularly where stability and safe handling are critical.

The investment comes as more than 600 ADCs are in development globally, increasing demand for specialised CDMO manufacturing services. Le Mans already supports payload, linker and drug substance production and is involved in the supply chain for six FDA-approved ADCs, with experience across tecans, auristatins, maytansines and pyrrolobenzodiazepines.

The project forms part of a multi-year €30m investment programme at the site and contributes to more than €100m invested across the group in 2025. The new lyophilisation capabilities are expected to come online in 2027.

Martin Meeson, chief executive officer at Axplora, said: “ADC programs are racing against the clock, and our customers need partners they can rely on to deliver with speed, efficiency and consistency.” He added: “This investment strengthens our ability to reduce complexity and risk for customers while supporting the rapid progression of complex ADC programs. François’s leadership will be instrumental as Le Mans continues to scale.”

François Houbart, who took up the role of head of site on 19 January 2026, said: “Our customers depend on us for reliability and execution. My focus is on strengthening operational excellence, maintaining uncompromising quality, and ensuring the Le Mans site consistently delivers for both clinical and commercial ADC programs.” He succeeds Rachel De Luca, now head of safety, health and environment for Axplora’s CDMO business unit.